The medical condition known as cracked heels, is an ailment many patients suffer from. The symptoms that are most often associated with cracked heels can include skin that is dry and thick on the outside of the heels and deep cracks or fissures in that area. Diabetic patients may experience cracked heels as a result of a loss of feeling which may accompany this condition. This can possibly lead to bleeding and an infection. Some of the reasons cracked heels may develop can include being overweight, standing for extended periods of time throughout the day, or from wearing shoes that have an open back. Mild relief may be obtained when the feet are soaked in warm water, followed by frequently using a good moisturizer. If you have this condition, and it is causing pain and discomfort, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can recommend proper treatment options.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks from Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside and Temecula, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The majority of people who enjoy the sport of running and jogging are familiar with the pain and inconvenience of a running injury. This can be a result of not training properly, and the physical stress may be overwhelming for the body to endure. There are methods that can be implemented which may reduce the risk of running injuries. These can include increasing the mileage gradually, and properly stretching the leg and foot muscles. Additionally, it is important to rest between races or general running, and this can help to prevent stagnant results and plateau levels. If you are interested in pursuing running on a frequent basis, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can educate you on how to prevent running injuries.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside and Temecula, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.